If you’re searching for a dish that wraps comfort, convenience, and color into every forkful, look no further than Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. This classic family bake is loved for good reason – it takes just a handful of everyday ingredients and transforms them into a creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Whether you’re rallying for a weeknight dinner or prepping for potluck stardom, this casserole brings ease and flavor together in every bubbling bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This list is refreshingly simple, but each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen for its role in crafting the cozy layers and crowd-pleasing taste of Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole. You’ll notice each item brings its own flair – from creamy base to cheesy topping to the comforting bite of rice and the fresh color of broccoli.
- Cooked white rice: The hearty foundation that soaks up all the delicious flavors while adding great texture.
- Cooked and shredded chicken breast: Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken makes prep a breeze and gives the casserole plenty of protein.
- Chopped broccoli florets (steamed or blanched): Adds beautiful color, a tender-crisp bite, and boosts your veggie quota.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: The secret to that ultra-creamy base, tying all the ingredients together.
- Sour cream: Brings a tangy richness to balance the flavors and keep every bite luscious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (divided): For melty goodness inside and a golden bubbly top – don’t skimp on this!
- Milk: Thins out the sauce a bit, making sure every morsel is creamy without being too heavy.
- Garlic powder: A subtle way to add savory depth without overpowering other flavors.
- Onion powder: For gentle, aromatic undertones that round out the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life – taste as you go!
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): If you crave a crunchy, buttery finish on top, this is your ticket.
- Melted butter (optional for topping): Mixes with your crumbs for an irresistible golden layer.
How to Make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, so nothing sticks and every cheesy bite slides out with ease. This simple step sets you up for casserole perfection.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked white rice, shredded chicken, tender broccoli florets, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The mixture should look creamy, colorful, and slightly thick – an instant sign you’re about to serve up something satisfying.
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour the blended Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole filling into your prepared baking dish. Use a spoon or spatula to create an even layer – this helps the casserole bake evenly and ensures every portion is just as good as the last.
Step 4: Top with Cheese and Crumbs
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese all over the top for that signature gooey crust. If you’re in the mood for a little crunch, mix your crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter, then sprinkle it over the cheese. This golden topping takes the casserole from comforting to absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish in the oven, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling, and the top is irresistibly golden. Let your Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole rest for about 5 minutes – this makes it easier to cut and serve tidy pieces.
How to Serve Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
Add a flourish of chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions across the top before serving. A scattering of extra cheese or even a dash of hot sauce brings a hint of color and lets each guest customize their plate of Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs effortlessly with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans. Bright, crisp sides help balance out the luxurious richness of Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole – turning it into a meal that’s both cozy and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, bake the mixture in individual ramekins for single-serve casseroles, or spoon it into puff pastry shells for an elegant lunch presentation. For potlucks, scoop out portions into muffin tins: each person gets their own portable, golden-topped mini Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftover casserole into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making weekday lunches or spontaneous midnight snacks a real treat.
Freezing
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble up to the point before baking, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for a near-instant, comforting meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until steaming hot, or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a 325°F oven. Add a splash of milk before reheating to help restore creaminess, and enjoy Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole at its melty best.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, but be sure it’s fully cooked before you add it to the casserole. It’s a simple swap that makes the dish a bit heartier without sacrificing any comfort.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes – just use a gluten-free condensed soup and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the topping. Double-check all labels to ensure every ingredient works for gluten-free diets.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
This dish is quite forgiving! Stir in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers alongside the broccoli for extra color and flavor. Just watch that the total veggie volume doesn’t overflow your baking dish.
How do I make Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Fully assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When it’s time for dinner, add a few minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge to ensure everything is hot and bubbling.
What cheeses work best if I want to switch it up?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, Swiss, mozzarella, or your favorite blend. Each cheese will bring its own unique personality to Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole – making it endlessly customizable.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole has earned its place at family tables everywhere – it’s hearty, comforting, and cooked with love every time. Give this recipe a try, and I promise your kitchen will be filled with happy faces and requests for seconds!
Print
Broccoli, Rice, Cheese, and Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty casserole featuring a blend of white rice, tender chicken, broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping:
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix rice, chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, top with remaining cheddar.
- Add topping: For optional topping, mix crushed crackers/breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable; thaw and drain well.
- Rotisserie chicken can be a time-saving substitute.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
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